Bradley looks ahead after first major win

AFTER soloing to his first major win at the Daily Dispatch Cycle Tour in East London earlier this month, Bradley Gouveris is looking to take his good form into next year.

The Port Elizabeth matriculant’s victory on a wet day was achieved in some style after going clear on the final climb of the 102km classic.

Although it was a breakthrough performance, he said he had been plotting victory all season.

Bradley, 18, said: “It was one of three races I’d identified to do well in this year.” He admitted he was not sure what he was in for. “I didn’t really know [who] I was up against [in East London]. But everything went right for me, so I’m happy to have pulled it off.”

Despite still being at school, Bradley has become an integral cog in NMMU’s Bestmed-Shukuma-Madibaz Cycling Club after some stand-out performances this year.

“Being with the Madibaz has really helped me,” he said, singling out the coaching aspect as well as the opportunity of racing alongside more experienced teammates.

“They’ve given me loads of support and my cycling has improved, so I’m definitely staying with them for 2017.”

With his brother Kellan having represented South Africa on the track at the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow two years ago, he has an impressive pedigree to call on.

Bradley said: “My dad also cycles and he encouraged us both to ride from a young age.

“Watching my brother perform so well has inspired me. I look up to him as a hero and he’s one of my biggest motivations.”

Even though the season has hardly finished, he is already focusing on next year.

“I’d like to do well in the national road champs and, if possible, at the SA track champs.

“But I’ve also set my sights on the Cape Town and Knysna cycle tours.”

If he could maintain his form, he said a good ride in the 947 Cycle Challenge in Joburg to close out next season would be the long-term objective.

“But I’m focusing on the next few months. I don’t want to get ahead of myself.”